The squadron’s Airmen normally spend up to 220 days a year traveling. Aside from performing impressive aerial demonstrations, Thunderbird Airmen visit with local schools and hospitals, hold enlistment ceremonies and conduct media engagements to speak with people about the Air Force.

“We are extremely excited to represent the Air Force during the upcoming season” said Lt. Col. Greg Moseley, the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron commander and lead pilot. “Our newest team members have been training rigorously to ensure we execute our mission safely while showing the public what their Airmen can do.”

Moseley is expected to depart the squadron after a change of command ceremony scheduled to occur Jan. 7, 2015. Lt. Col. Christopher Hammond, an experienced fighter pilot with more than 2,000 flight hours, will assume command of the squadron for the 2015 and 2016 demonstration seasons.

“It’s an honor to share the story of U.S. Airmen serving at locations around the globe,” Hammond said. “We hope these stories inspire others to learn more about aviation and opportunities to serve.”

The Thunderbirds were formed in 1953, and since have been charged with demonstrating the professionalism of Airmen and the capabilities of modern airpower. The 2015 season marks the 33rd year the squadron has performed in the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

Assigned to Air Combat Command, the squadron is composed of nearly 130 Airmen serving in more than two dozen Air Force job specialties.

The primary product of that teamwork is a Thunderbirds aerial demonstration, which includes approximately 40 maneuvers, featuring formation flying and solo routines. The entire show, including the beginning ground ceremony, lasts about one hour. A typical air show travel season extends from March to November.